Lunchtime Lecture by Professor Michael Herity, MRIA.

Lunchtime Lecture series organised by the Royal Irish Academy Library and the Irish Historic Towns Atlas 'Mapping city, town and country since 1824: the Ordnance Survey in Ireland.'

Herity focusses on the period 1830-61 and O'Donovan's involvement with the OS 6" mapping project and the centrality of his role. His expertise in the Irish language and grasp of etymology, as well as his intimate knowledge of the history and antiquities of Ireland, resulted in the connection of 'placenames with history... raising them above mere words'. The importance of O'Donovan's fieldwork, keen ear, in-depth knowledge and forensic research are described, as are the treks he engaged in on a daily basis throughout the country. His connection with Petrie's work on Tara is adverted to. Betham's vituperative criticisms and the consequent scrutiny of the Memoir scheme and the OS work is discussed. Examples are provided of O'Donovan's linguistic prowess and his acerbic wit. Please see accompanying powerpoint. http://www.slideshare.net/theroyalirishacademy/prof-michael-herity-mria-john-odonovans-work-for-the-os-29102014

Location: Academy House

Date: Wednesday 29 October, 2014

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